Parents Then, Parents Now

By: Claudia Novo Castellví, Lady Play at ByBa

How our view of play has changed

For a long time, children’s play was seen as something separate from the adult world.
The adult’s role was limited: supervising, correcting, or stepping in only to set rules.

Between the 1970s and 1980s, this view began to shift.
Adults moved from being observers or authorities to becoming active companions in play.

Today, we understand play as a powerful developmental tool, and adult presence doesn’t interrupt creativity—it enriches it.
Adults stop “controlling” play and start truly being in it.

What we know today

We now have more knowledge and awareness about the importance of early childhood.
We know that accompanying, listening and setting respectful limits supports healthier emotional development.

That’s why we talk about a more active, informed approach to parenting.

Through play, children don’t just have fun.
They also:

• create

• solve problems

• learn to regulate emotions

• relate to others

• develop thinking skills

And above all, they expand their creativity.

Shared play becomes a space of connection, communication and Createfillment.

Three simple games to build creativity and connection

1. Imitation game: “Like You”

Age: 1–4

How to play:
The adult imitates the child’s gestures, sounds or movements.

What the child learns:
They feel seen and recognized. Bonding is strengthened. Communication begins.

Adult’s role:
Follow the child, stay attentive and enjoy the moment—no correcting, no directing.

2. Emotional game: “Faces”

Age: 2–5

How to play:
In front of a mirror or with pictures, adult and child make faces showing different emotions.

What the child learns:
To identify emotions, name feelings and understand that all emotions are valid.

Adult’s role:
Name and validate the emotion.

3. Free exploration game: “Boxes & Treasures”

Age: 0–6

How to play:
Offer safe everyday objects for free exploration.

What the child learns:
Autonomy, creativity, coordination and curiosity.

Adult’s role:
Observe, accompany and ensure safety.

Essential for the Creative Family

Today, parents play.
We’ve moved from “leave them alone” to “I’m with you”.

And in that shared play, we build bonds, trust and creativity for life.